Windows 10 is a popular operating system that comes with an array of built-in features and apps that can be used for various purposes. One such feature is the WindowsApps folder, which contains all the installed apps on your computer. However, accessing this folder can be a bit tricky as it is protected by default, which means that only system administrators can access it. In this article, we will show you how to access the protected WindowsApps folder on Windows.

Step 1: Enable Hidden Folders

Before you can access the WindowsApps folder, you need to enable the display of hidden folders on your computer. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the View tab.
3. Click Options, and then click Change folder and search options.
4. Click the View tab.
5. Under Advanced settings, select Show hidden files, folders, and drives.
6. Click OK.

Step 2: Take Ownership of the WindowsApps Folder

Once you have enabled hidden folders, the next step is to take ownership of the WindowsApps folder. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to the following path: C:\Program Files.
3. Right-click the WindowsApps folder, and then click Properties.
4. Click the Security tab.
5. Click the Advanced button.
6. Click the Change link next to the Owner field.
7. In the Enter the object name to select field, enter your username and click Check Names.
8. Click OK.
9. Check the box next to Replace owner on sub-containers and objects.
10. Click Apply, and then click OK.
11. Click OK again.

Step 3: Grant Yourself Access to the WindowsApps Folder

Now that you have taken ownership of the WindowsApps folder, the next step is to grant yourself access to the folder. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Right-click the WindowsApps folder, and then click Properties.
2. Click the Security tab.
3. Click the Edit button.
4. Click the Add button.
5. In the Enter the object names to select field, enter your username and click Check Names.
6. Click OK.
7. Click the checkbox next to Full Control under the allow column.
8. Click Apply, and then click OK.

Step 4: Access the WindowsApps Folder

With ownership and access granted, you should now be able to access the WindowsApps folder. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to the following path: C:\Program Files.
3. Right-click the WindowsApps folder, and then click Open.
4. You should now see a list of installed apps on your computer.